Topic: 2024-The Situation in Rwanda
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Nikhil Talla
The ongoing conflict in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) results from historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and resource competition. After the Rwandan genocide and following civil war in 1994, the conflict between ethnic groups has evolved into a regional crisis involving groups such as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the March 23 Movement (M23). These groups operate primarily within the DRC and are each speculated by the other of being supported by the DRC and Rwanda, respectively. The eastern DRC border contains precious metals like cobalt, but the M23 militant group also attacks the DRC border for political power and to destroy the FDLR.
The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria emphasizes the importance of preserving national sovereignty and regional autonomy when resolving conflicts across the African continent, including the conflict in Rwanda and the DRC. Algeria suggests that the involvement of foreign powers in African conflicts undermines the principle of national sovereignty and Africa’s ability to resolve its own issues. For example, in response to regional conflicts, Algeria supports mechanisms that emphasize regional ownership of peace initiatives, such as the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative. Algeria acknowledges use of precious materials to fund illicit arms operations, but Algeria urges that all international engagement in African crises must respect African sovereignty and prioritize support for frameworks developed by the African Union and regional organizations. This approach aligns with Algeria’s commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and stability while preventing undermining external influence on African affairs.
Algeria firmly believes that resolutions to the conflict within Rwanda and the DRC must be led by African nations. Algeria also suggests that nations should focus on reinforcing the African Union’s Peace and Security Architecture and fostering collaboration with regional actors instead of invoking external overt military force like peacekeeping missions. To achieve this, the United Nations can promote regional dialogue between Rwanda, the DRC, the FDLR, and the M23 groups. Algeria also encourages the United Nations to address the root causes of the conflict like economic development and resource management. Direct external intervention risks exacerbating political unrest and undermining African sovereignty, but the collaborative effort of external nations in generating conflict resolution strategies is indispensable.
